Get ready to elevate your summer picnics and backyard barbecues with a dish that’s not just good, but downright irresistible! Our "Damn Good Classic Macaroni Salad" is a creamy, tangy, and utterly satisfying side that will have your friends and family coming back for seconds (and thirds!). In just 25 minutes, you can whip up this classic American favorite, packed with crunchy veggies, hard-boiled eggs, and a zesty dressing that brings it all together. Trust us, this is the macaroni salad that will steal the show at any gathering!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. This will be used to cook the elbow macaroni.
- Once the water is boiling, add 2 cups of elbow macaroni. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, or until al dente.
- While the macaroni is cooking, prepare the other ingredients. Finely chop 1/4 cup of red onion and 1/4 cup of celery. Set aside in a mixing bowl.
- Chop 2 hard-boiled eggs into small pieces and add them to the bowl with the onion and celery.
- Once the macaroni is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Let it drain thoroughly.
- Add the cooled macaroni to the mixing bowl with the chopped vegetables and eggs.
- In a separate small bowl, combine 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1/4 cup of sweet pickle relish, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the mayonnaise mixture over the macaroni and vegetable mixture. Gently fold everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Taste the macaroni salad and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper to your liking.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, give the salad a good stir and garnish with additional chopped celery or a sprinkle of paprika if desired. Serve chilled and enjoy your Damn Good Classic Macaroni Salad!
Tips
- Cook the Pasta Perfectly: To achieve that ideal al dente texture, make sure to stir the elbow macaroni occasionally while it cooks. This prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
- Cool Down Quickly: After draining the macaroni, rinse it under cold water. This not only stops the cooking process but also helps the pasta absorb the dressing better later on.
- Customize Your Crunch: Feel free to add other crunchy vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
- Let It Chill: For the best flavor, let your macaroni salad chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste your salad before serving! Adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or even a dash of vinegar if you prefer a tangier flavor.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of paprika or some extra chopped celery on top before serving not only enhances the look but adds a fresh touch to your dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 95mg
